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Stress Echocardiogram

EchoCardiogram Video

Information about this test

  • This procedure assesses for stress induced arrhythmias or blockages in the arteries of the heart. An echocardiogram records sound waves that create images on the monitor. 
  • During this procedure, we will obtain an ultrasound of the heart at rest. We also obtain EKG’s before, continuously during exercise and during your cool down/recovery. You will have a repeat echocardiogram post stress induced (by walking on a treadmill or with medication which speeds the heart rate up.)

How Long Does This Procedure Take

  • The procedure takes about an hour. If you have a visit with a cardiologist after this test, plan on being with us about 90 minutes.

What Preparation is Required Prior To This Procedure

  • You can eat and drink normally prior to the procedure although we generally recommend avoiding caffeine on the morning of the procedure.
  •  You may be asked to hold certain medications such as beta blockers (metoprolol, atenolol, carvedilol, etc) on the morning of the procedure or even the night before.
  •  We recommend wearing shoes and clothing you would be comfortable walking in.
  •  You will be asked to remove your clothing and change into a gown prior to this procedure.
  •  We recommend urinating just prior to this procedure so that you are comfortable during the procedure.
  •  We may place an IV prior to procedure to administer ultrasound contrast (lipid bubbles - NOT contrast like that given for CT scans or radiology procedures) to enhance the images and better assess for evidence of blockages.

Who Performs/Interprets This Procedure

  • This procedure is performed by a cardiac sonographer, who is an ultrasound specialist in imaging the heart, as well as a cardiac nurse with advanced training in stress testing and ECG monitoring.
  • The procedure is interpreted by a cardiologist with advanced echocardiography certification.

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